Cavaliers' Irving Says He'll Play Game 1 vs. Hawks

INDEPENDENCE, Ohio (AP) - Cavaliers All-Star guard Kyrie Irving returned to practice and says his leg injuries will not keep him off the court for Game 1 of the Eastern Conference finals.

Irving sat out Cleveland's practice Saturday and spent the weekend receiving treatment on tendinitis in his left knee and a sprained right foot as the Cavs rested for their series against the Atlanta Hawks. On Monday, Irving said the time off helped and he feels "pretty good" going into Wednesday's series opener.

Irving said "I'm going to go" when asked about his status for Game 1.

Irving took part in Cleveland's entire practice. He played just 12 minutes in the Cavs' Game 6 win over Chicago. He has been dealing with a sprained foot since Game 2 of the opening-round series against Boston.

Irving stayed on the court following practice for an animated shooting contest with LeBron James.

Updated May 18, 2015